The race is heating up in New Jersey’s 16th Legislative District as voters prepare to cast ballots in the upcoming General Assembly election on November 4, 2025. With both incumbents seeking another term and challengers ready to shake up the balance of power, the contest promises to be one of the state’s most closely watched legislative battles.
The 16th District, stretching across Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties, has long been known for competitive elections and shifting party dynamics. This year’s matchup between Democratic Assembly members Mitchelle Drulis and Roy Freiman against Republican candidates Catherine Payne and Scott Sipos is no exception.
For voters across Central Jersey, the outcome will help shape the state’s policy direction on education, the economy, infrastructure, and more.
Explore more election coverage on our New Jersey Politics page.
Meet the Candidates
Democrats: The Incumbent Team
- Mitchelle Drulis (Raritan Township)
Assemblywoman Drulis, who has represented the district since her election, is running on a platform of continuing legislative progress in areas like public education, women’s health, and local infrastructure improvements. She has been endorsed by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) PAC, underscoring her strong ties to teachers and schools throughout the district. - Roy Freiman (Hillsborough Township)
Assemblyman Freiman, a longtime resident and community advocate, is seeking another term alongside Drulis. Known for his background in business and finance, Freiman has focused on issues such as economic growth, job creation, and tax relief for middle-class families. Like Drulis, he also received the NJEA PAC endorsement, further solidifying the Democrats’ education-focused campaign message.
Republicans: The Challengers
- Catherine Payne (Hillsborough Township)
A Hillsborough Committeewoman, Payne enters the race with a track record of local government service. Her campaign has emphasized fiscal responsibility, parental rights in education, and supporting small businesses. She brings grassroots support from her township and is expected to be a strong voice for suburban families. - Scott Sipos (Raritan Township)
Sipos, a Committeeman from Raritan Township, joins Payne as the Republican ticket in this year’s contest. With a focus on community safety, property tax reform, and transportation infrastructure, Sipos is appealing to residents who want practical solutions to everyday challenges.
District Overview: Central Jersey at a Crossroads
The 16th Legislative District is politically diverse, encompassing suburban, rural, and more densely populated areas. Its composition across four counties makes it one of New Jersey’s more dynamic districts, where election results are rarely predictable.
- Voter Registration (June 2025): Democrats hold a numerical advantage over Republicans, though unaffiliated voters make up the largest share of the electorate. This means swing voters could determine the outcome.
- Primary Recap: In June, Drulis and Freiman successfully held off a primary challenge from Mahmoud Desouky. Payne and Sipos, meanwhile, secured their Republican nominations unopposed.
Historically, the 16th District has swung between parties, making every election cycle an opportunity for change. With both sides energized, 2025 is shaping up to be another competitive race.
Election Timeline & Voting Information
- General Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Polls will be open across all four counties included in the 16th District.
- Early Voting: In-person early voting runs from Saturday, October 25, through Sunday, November 2. Voters can visit designated polling locations during this period to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day.
- Vote by Mail: Applications for mail-in ballots must be submitted to county clerks by October 28, 2025. Residents are encouraged to apply early to ensure timely delivery and return.
For additional updates on state politics, election schedules, and legislative races, visit our Explore New Jersey Politics section.
What’s at Stake
The 2025 General Assembly elections will determine not only representation for the 16th District but also help shape the political balance in Trenton. Education funding, tax relief, transportation infrastructure, and property tax reform are expected to dominate debates.
With Democrats aiming to maintain their majority and Republicans seeking to reclaim seats in suburban strongholds, the 16th District is a bellwether for where New Jersey voters may be heading in future statewide contests.
Final Thoughts
The 16th Legislative District election is more than just a local race—it’s a reflection of New Jersey’s political identity in 2025. Will voters stay the course with incumbents Mitchelle Drulis and Roy Freiman, or will challengers Catherine Payne and Scott Sipos tap into suburban momentum for change?
Either way, residents across Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties will have a defining voice in November.
Stay connected with Explore New Jersey for breaking election coverage, candidate profiles, and ongoing analysis leading up to Election Day 2025.
